The Gorilla World Habitat in Cincinnati Welcomes a New Primate after Harambe’s Death

The Cincinnati Zoo welcomed a new ‘lowland silverback’ gorilla for the first time, after the death of Harambe in May 2016. The new gorilla was transferred from the Louisville Zoo in September this year.

Mshindi is a 29-year old, western lowland silverback, and is the new addition to the Gorilla World habitat, after Harambe. The primate was shifted from its former home at the Louisville Zoo and brought to Cincinnati Zoo this month.

The officials are gradually familiarizing Mshindi with the surroundings.

According to Ron Evans, Curator of Primates at the zoo told the media, “Officials are working closely with the Louisville Zoo’s gorilla staff to acquaint themselves with Mshindi’s behavior. The officials are also learning of the primate’s body presentations, health concerns, and his preferences and dislikes.”

Mshindi will also be accompanied by Chewie, 21, and Mara, 22, the two female gorillas present in the habitat.

As per the Cincinnati Zoo, the gorillas will be introduced to one another privately before allowing them to coexist in the surroundings.

Harambe was killed by the zoo officials in 2016, when a 4-year-old boy fell into the gorilla’s habitat. The male gorilla failed to take instructions since it was distracted.

“Harambe was clearly agitated and clearly disoriented and was acting erratically,” the Cincinnati officials said.

After the incident went viral on social media, debates sparked on animal cruelty and the boy’s parents were held accountable.

The Gorilla World Habitat is currently undergoing major restorations. The repair activities will conclude by December 2017.

Bhawna Kohli is an acclaimed Research Manager - Cross Verticals and author. Bhawna holds a masters with a rich background in international politics, media, and marketing. Popular as a seasoned communicator and writer, she has published several data-oriented articles for both online and print media.